When I first started dancing salsa over 2 yrs ago... I used to prefer flashy partners... those who can lead me into crazy turn patterns, dips, and all kinds of moves I've never seen before. Even amongst friends who are in the same level, from the same class... it seem to be more fun dancing with those who can execute moves they've learned outside of class (even though often it is not executed well). As time passes, I notice my preference in partner changed... these days I don't care so much about crazy turn patterns as I do about my partner dancing on time, or being playful with the accents of the music, or executing a move that's clean and simple instead of sloppy and complicated.

That is so true KT! When I first started dancing the stronger and flashier the lead, the better. I loved dancing with guys who did crazy dips, neck drops, danced big and strong. But to be honest sometimes dancers dance this way to hide the fact that they are not versatile with the lead, musicality, body movement and after you dance with gentle, layered dancers who can add body movement, accented leading, styling, shines, playfulness, speed variations and much more, you realize how much more interesting and challenging this style of dancing really is for a progressing follower.

Now it is much harder for me to go back and dance with the flashy dancers...and sometimes it actually hurts as they are so rough! Dancing should definitely not hurt and be aggressive so remember that next time you are leading or following!_________________Sharon
Toronto Dance Salsa
http://www.torontodancesalsa.ca
Toronto Salsa Lessons / Toronto Salsa Classes

What's the deal, salsa people? From my perspective, my preference in a dance partner is someone who has excellent timing and is fun to dance with. I try to make it fun and easy for whoever I'm dancing with and it's way more fun dancing with someone who you've never danced with before. I also try to dance with someone who is more advanced than myslef. Pretty soon, I'll also be looking for on2 dancers. Holla back at ya boy!_________________You knooow!

What I've always enjoyed about social dancing is having a connection with the person you're dancing with during the song. It feels almost like magic when you lead someone into a move and you imagine them doing a body movement or hit an accent and they do exactly as you imagined. It's like when two people say the same thing at the same time. It's surprising but shows you're both thinking of the same thing. Above all my preference in dancing is simply a partner who has fun. Nothing is more enjoyable than leaving the dance floor with big smiles!